Inventory system and methods of using the same

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to an inventory system that can include a tagged inventory item, wherein the tagged inventory item includes a radio field tag attached to an inventory item; and an inventory device, wherein the inventory device includes a weighing surface, an array of force sensing resistors, and at least one radio field antenna, wherein the array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radio field antenna are configured to weigh and identify the tagged inventory item through the weighing surface, and methods of using the same. One benefit of the system and method disclosed herein can be monitoring inventory having changing amounts of content in real time.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application claiming benefit ofpending U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 16/919,536, filed Jul. 2,2020, which is a continuation of U.S. Utility application Ser. No.16/395,125, filed Apr. 25, 2019 (now U.S. Pat. No. 10,769,589), which isa continuation application of PCT Application No.: PCT/US2018/054026,filed Oct. 2, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/567,308, filed Oct. 3, 2017, the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an inventory system, wherein theinventory system includes an array of force sensing resistors and atleast one radio field antenna configured to weigh and identify a taggedinventory item.

BACKGROUND

One of the biggest challenges in running any warehouse, stockroom,shipping area, supply depot, retail center, restaurant, bar, or anyother item-based business is taking inventory. Taking inventory is anincredibly time and labor intensive task that costs millions of dollarsper year. Yet inventory must be taken accurately and often. If too manyitems are kept in inventory, then capital is tied up in inventory andstorage space becomes costly and problematic. If too few items are keptin inventory, then the business may run out of items to sell when acustomer wants them, resulting in missed sales and lost customers. Also,businesses need to monitory inventory to detect breakage, theft, andother causes of lost inventory to address those inventory losses.

There have been advances in technology for monitoring the inventory oflarge, whole items for storage, shipping, and retail businesses.Barcodes are often scanned to monitor inventory as it arrives anddeparts from the business. Retail businesses often use radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tags to monitor and/or prevent theft of items,especially garments and electronics.

However, despite all of these advances, there remains a need for aninventory system that can track the inventory of items having an amountof content that varies over time. For example, consider the plight ofthe beverage and hospitality industry. Many bars have significantamounts of money invested in inventories of alcoholic beverages that arestored in many different bottles. The bottles may be opened or unopened;the contents may be sold by the bottle, by the glass, or by the portionfor mixed drinks; and the contents may have vastly different prices perserving. Worse, during peak times, bartenders may not be able to placean opened bottle in the exact position where it was previously stored.Bartenders may not be able to find the opened bottle and may openanother one. Also, consumers often buy different amounts of the contentsof a bottle at different rates over different periods of time. Thenthere is the issue of content loss due to evaporation of alcohols thatsit for months after being opened.

This inventory dilemma has created a huge headache for the beverage andhospitality industry. Many bars and hotels are forced to spend hours perday taking inventory of every bottle of alcoholic beverage, oftenmultiple times per day. This task can cost a business tens of thousandsof dollars in wages and be the most unpleasant part of any bartender'sjob.

This example is hardly isolated. The inventory of containers oftendepends on taking an inventory of the contents of opened containers. Forexample, many hospitals need to track how many pills remain in an openedbottle and where the bottle is located. Many sellers of small amounts ofsolids or liquids need to track inventory of chemicals, such as a solid,a liquid, or a slurry; small parts, such as nuts, bolts, and screws; andconsumables, such as coffee, tea, sugar, and nuts; or any other itemwhere it is inconvenient or impossible to attach an inventory label tothe product itself.

There remains a need for an inventory system that can track the numberof containers in an inventory as well as an amount of content in theopened containers. There remains a need to track where specificcontainers are actually located instead of where they are supposed to belocated. There remains a need to cost effectively maintain real-timerecords of the number, location, and content of containers and openedcontainers.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a system. In an embodiment, the systemincludes a tagged inventory item, wherein the tagged inventory itemincludes a radio field tag attached to an inventory item; and aninventory device, wherein the inventory device includes a weighingsurface, an array of force sensing resistors, and at least one radiofield antenna, wherein the array of force sensing resistors and the atleast one radio field antenna are configured to weigh and identify thetagged inventory item through the weighing surface. In an embodiment ofthe system, the radio field tag includes an item adhesive layer, aconcentrating layer, and an integrated circuit layer, and theconcentrating layer is in contact with and located between the itemadhesive layer and the integrated circuit layer. In an embodiment of thesystem, the radio field tag is a passive radio frequency identificationtag, a battery assisted radio frequency identification tag, an activeradio frequency identification tag, or a passive nearfield tag; and theat least one radio field antenna includes an active radio field antennaor a passive radio field antenna. In an embodiment of the system, theconcentrating layer includes a radio signal enhancing material. In anembodiment of the system, the inventory device includes a top and abottom, the top of the inventory device includes the weighing surface,and the array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radiofield antenna are located between the top and the bottom of theinventory device. In an embodiment of the system, the array of forcesensing resistors is closer to the top of the inventory device than theat least one radio field antenna, and optionally, the array of forcesensing resistors is in contact with the top of the inventory device. Inan embodiment of the system, the array of force sensing resistors andthe at least one radio field antenna are configured to communicate witha system processor, and the system processor is configured tocommunicate with at least one of a database, a display, and a network.In an embodiment of the system, the inventory item includes a vesselcontaining an amount of content, and the content includes a solid, aliquid, a slurry, a particulate, or a combination thereof. In anembodiment of the system, the inventory item includes a vesselcontaining an amount of content, and the content includes a solid, aliquid, a slurry, a particulate, or a combination thereof; and theconcentrating layer enhances an amount of radio signal from radio fieldtag to the at least one radio field antenna.

A method is disclosed herein. In an embodiment of the method, the methodincludes providing a system, wherein the system includes a taggedinventory item, wherein the tagged inventory item includes an radiofield tag attached to an inventory item; and an inventory device,wherein the inventory device includes a weighing surface, an array offorce sensing resistors, and at least one radio field antenna, whereinthe array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radio fieldantenna are configured to weigh and identify the tagged inventory itemthrough the weighing surface. In an embodiment, the method furtherincludes detecting a weight change of from about 25.0 g to about 45.0 kgwhen the tagged inventory item is placed into contact with the weighingsurface of the inventory device; measuring a weight of the taggedinventory item; and identifying the tagged inventory item by turning onthe at least one radio field antenna. In an embodiment of the method,the array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radio fieldantenna are configured to communicate with a system processor, whereinthe system processor is configured to communicate with at least one of adatabase, a network, and a display. In an embodiment, the method furtherincludes transmitting at least one of a measurement time, a measurementdate, a radio field tag code, a tagged inventory item identity, atemperature, a weight, and an inventory device code from the systemprocessor to at least one of the database, the network, and the display.In an embodiment of the method, the at least one radio field antenna isturned on in response to the array of force sensing resistors detectingthe weight change of from about 25.0 g to about 45.0 kg. In anembodiment, the method further includes turning off the at least oneradio field antenna after communicating a radio field tag code to asystem processor. In an embodiment of the method, the inventory itemincludes a vessel containing an amount content, wherein the contentincludes a solid, a liquid, a slurry, a particulate, or a combinationthereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofthe embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction withthe attached drawings. For the purpose of illustration and evidence,there are shown in the drawings some embodiments, which may bepreferable. It should be understood that the embodiments depicted arenot limited to the precise details shown, and are not drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a system.

FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of an inventory deviceof the system.

FIG. 3A is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of an array of forcesensing resistors.

FIG. 3B is an exploded block diagram of the elements of a force sensingelement of the array of force sensing resistors of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is an oriented layout diagram of the elements of FIG. 3B.

FIG. 3D is a cross section diagram of the force sensor assembly,including in the array of force sensing resistors of FIG. 3A taken alongA-A.

FIG. 3E is a schematic circuit diagram of an array of force sensingresistors.

FIG. 4 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a radio field tag ofthe system, wherein the radio field tag is attached to an adhesivebacking instead of an inventory item.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of an embodiment of the system.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method.

FIG. 7 is an embodiment of a prototype of an integrated circuit layer.

FIG. 8 is an embodiment of a prototype of a radio field tag attached toan adhesive backing instead of an inventory item.

FIG. 9 is an embodiment of a prototype of a radio field antenna.

FIG. 10 is an embodiment of a working prototype of an array of forcesensing sensors on top of at least one radio field antenna.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Conventional inventory systems can take, monitor, and record theinventory of large, whole items based on the assumption that thecontents of the item being inventoried will not change over time.Conventional inventory systems can take the inventory of items only asthey move into and out of a controlled area, such as a retail store orwarehouse. These conventional inventory systems work fine when sellingwhole items, such as garments, or packaged items, such as electronics.However, many industries, such as the entertainment industry and thehospitality industry do not just sell whole items. Instead, they sellportions of inventory items, such as liquor by the glass or by theportion. These industries spend millions of dollars on labor takingfrequent inventory of bottles of their alcoholic beverages to determinetheir current inventory and to plan for maintaining that inventory.

These labor costs have been necessary because there does not appear tobe any inventory system that is capable of maintaining a real timeinventory of items, tracking varying amounts of content in the inventoryitems, or tracking the current location of multiple inventory itemswithin a retail or storage space. Until now.

The present disclosure relates to a system, including an inventorysystem. In an embodiment, the system includes at least one taggedinventory item and at least one inventory device. In an embodiment, thetagged inventory item includes a radio field tag attached to aninventory item. For example, the tagged inventory item can be aconventional radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag adhered to aninventory item, such as an opened bottle of an alcoholic beverage. In anembodiment, the at least one inventory device includes a weighingsurface, an array of force sensing resistors, and at least one radiofield antenna, wherein the array of force sensing resistors and the atleast one radio field antenna are configured or positioned to weigh andidentify the tagged inventory item through the weighing surface. Forexample, an embodiment of the inventory device can take the form of amat, wherein the mat contains an array of force sensing sensorspositioned over a radio field antenna. In an embodiment, the taggedinventory item can be weighed and identified through the weighingsurface when the tagged inventory item is placed onto and/or stored ontop of the inventory device.

In an embodiment of the system, the inventory device can communicate aweight of the tagged inventory item, an identification code of theinventory item, and an identification code of the inventory device to asystem processor. In an embodiment, the system processor can retrievefrom a database the identification of the inventory item, the locationof the inventory device, and the time of measurement. In an embodiment,the system processor can communicate at least one of a measurement time,a measurement date, a radio field tag code, a tagged inventory itemidentity, a temperature, a weight, and an inventory device code from thesystem processor to at least one of a database, a network, and adisplay. In an embodiment, a system having a plurality of taggedinventory items and inventory devices can maintain, record, track,and/or display a real time inventory of multiple tagged inventory itemsstored on top of multiple inventory devices, including the identify,amount of content, and location of the tagged inventory items. Forexample, a bartender could use the system to determine the entireinventory of a bar full of opened bottles at a single glance of thesystem display. In such an embodiment, the system could end the practiceof wasting hours of time and millions of dollars taking and retaking theinventory of inventory items having variable amounts of content.

Unless otherwise noted, all measurements are in standard metric units.Unless otherwise noted, all instances of the words “a,” “an,” or “the”can refer to one or more than one of the word that they modify.

Unless otherwise noted, the phrase “at least one” means one or more thanone of an object. Unless otherwise noted, the phrase “at least one of”means one or more than one of the listed objects or any combinationthereof. For example, the phrase “at least one of the database, thenetwork, and the display” would mean the database, the network, or thedisplay, or any combination thereof.

Unless otherwise noted, the term “about” refers to ±5% of thenon-percentage number that is described. For example, about 100 g, caninclude from to 95 to 115 g. Unless otherwise noted, the term “about”refers to ±5% of a percentage number. For example, about 20% can includefrom 15 to 25%. When the term “about” is discussed in terms of a range,then the term refers to the appropriate amount less than the lower limitand more than the upper limit. For example, from about 100 g to about200 g can include from 95 to 210 g.

Unless otherwise noted, a range of numbers includes all numbers in thatrange. For example, the range of 1-5 g includes 1 g, 2 g, 3 g, 4 g, 5 g,and any sub range therein.

Unless otherwise noted, the term “providing” refers to any method ofmanufacturing, purchasing, or any method of obtaining the object beingreferred to.

Unless otherwise noted, the term “real time” means from instantly to 72hours.

Unless otherwise noted, the term “radio field tag” can be usedinterchangeably with “radio frequency tag.”

It is understood that, depending on the context, the term “radio fieldtag” can include an adhesive backing when not attached to an inventoryitem. Conversely, it is understood that, depending on the context, theterm “radio field tag” can exclude an adhesive backing when attached toan inventory item.

System

In an embodiment, an inventory system is disclosed. Referring to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the inventory system 100 include a tagged inventoryitem 106, wherein the tagged inventory item 106 includes a radio fieldtag 104 attached to an inventory item 102. In an embodiment, theinventory device 110 includes a weighing surface 112 on the exterior ofthe inventory device, and the inventory device includes an array offorce sensing resistors 114 and at least one radio field antenna 116inside of the inventory device. In an embodiment, the array of forcesensing resistors 114 and the at least one radio field antenna 116 areconfigured to, capable of, or positioned to weigh and identify thetagged inventory item through the weighing surface 112. In anembodiment, when the tagged inventory item 106 is placed into contactwith or onto the weighing surface 112, then the weight of the taggedinventory item 106 can press down through the material of the weighingsurface 112 onto the array of force sensing resistors 114. In anembodiment, in response to detecting a weight change, the at least oneradio field antenna 116 is turned on, sending out a radio field signal108. In an embodiment, the radio field signal 108 interacts with theradio field tag 104 to pass an identification code from the radio fieldtag 104 through the weighing surface 112 and the array of force sensingresistors 114 to the at least radio field antenna 116. In an embodiment,the array of force sensing resistors 114 weighs the tagged inventoryitem 106. In an embodiment, the array of force sensing resistors 114 andat least one radio field antenna 116 are configured to, connected to, orcapable of communicating with a system processor 118. In an embodiment,the system processor 118 is configured to, connected to, or capable ofcommunicating with a database 120, a network 122, and/or a display 124.In an embodiment, the inventory device 110 can have a light source 126on an exterior surface of the inventory device.

An inventory device is disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the inventorydevice includes a weighing surface, an array of force sensing resistors,and at least one radio field antenna. In an embodiment, the inventorydevice is configured to or capable of weighing and/or identifying thetagged inventory item through the weighing surface.

Referring to FIG. 2 , in an embodiment, the inventory device 200 has atop of the inventory device 208, a bottom of the inventory device 210,and at least one side of the inventory device 218. In an embodiment, theinventory device 200 includes the top of the inventory device 208, whichincludes a weighing surface 206. In an embodiment, the array of forcesensing resistors 202 can be positioned below the weighing surface 206or between the weighing surface 206 and the bottom of the inventorydevice 210. In an embodiment, the array of force sensing resistors 202can be located inside the inventory device 200, such that the array offorce sensing resistors is surrounded or encased by the top of theinventory device 208, the bottom of the inventory device 210, and atleast one side of the inventory device 218. In an embodiment, the arrayof force sensing resistors 202 can be in direct or indirect contact withthe weighing surface 206. In an embodiment, the array of force sensingsensors 202 is positioned between the weighing surface 206 and the atleast one radio field antenna 204. In an embodiment, the at least oneradio field antenna 204 is located between the array of force sensingresistors 202 and the bottom of the inventory device 210. In anembodiment, the array of force sensing resistors 202 is closer to thetop of the inventory device 208 than the at least one radio fieldantenna 204. In an embodiment, the array of force sensing resistors 202is in direct or indirect contact with the at least one radio fieldantenna 204.

In an embodiment, the array of force sensing resistors 202 is connectedto an array data wire 224, and the array data wire 224 is connected toan array port 214. In an embodiment, the array port 214 can be locatedin a side of the inventory device 218. In an embodiment, the array offorce sensing resistors 202 is connected to a power wire 222, and thepower wire 222 is connected to a power port 220. In an embodiment, thepower port 220 can be located in a side of the inventory device 218. Inan embodiment, the at least one radio field antenna 204 is connected toan antenna data wire 226, and the antenna data wire 226 is connected toan antenna port 216. In an embodiment, the antenna port can be locatedin a side of the inventory device 218. In an embodiment, the at leastone radio field antenna 204 is connected to a power wire 222, and thepower wire 222 is connected to a power port 220. In an embodiment, thepower port 220 can be located in a side of the inventory device 218. Inan embodiment, at least one light source 212 is attached to or locatedon an exterior surface of the top of the inventory device 208.

In an embodiment, the array of force sensing resistors (AFSR) is notparticularly limited, so long as the AFSR is capable of detecting aweight change and/or weighing inventory items. The array of forcesensing resistors can be referred to interchangeably as a “force sensorarray.”

One benefit of the AFSR can be that its dimensions can cover a wide areawhile remaining thin enough that a radio signal or radio field signalcan pass through it. Another benefit of the AFSR can be that each forcesensing resistor (FSR) is capable of individually detecting andmeasuring a change in the force, pressure, or weight applied to anindividual FSR. A benefit of the system can be that the system processorcan correlate data from individual FSRs and their known location in thearray to generate a weight map or weight image of the force or weightthat the inventory item exerts on the AFSR. In an embodiment, the systemcan match a weight map from the AFSR to a known weight map from thedatabase to identify or assist in identifying a tagged inventory item.In an embodiment, the AFSR can detect a weight change of from about 25.0g to about 45.0 kg when an inventory item or a tagged inventory item isplaced onto the AFSR directly or indirectly. It is possible for the AFSRto detect weight changes of less than 25.0 g, but lower weight changesettings could result in the system being turned on or activated inresponse to accidental environmental changes. Is it possible for theAFSR to detect weight changes of more than 45.0 kg, but the AFSR mightbe damaged unless designed to withstand such weights.

In more detail, the force sensing resistors (FSR), as disclosed beloware formed as a multiple membrane assembly that is capable of detectinglow intensity pressure inputs, such as inventory items, and quantifyingvarying applications of pressure, such as weight, to the sensor surface.Pre-loading the force sensor elements results in controlled amounts offorce between the two substrates causing a constant state of pre-loadand eliminating the low-end or minimal pressure signal noise associatedwith unloaded sensors. Pre-loading the force sensing resistor sensorsalso enables the sensor to detect removal of low intensity pressureinput such as might occur when low weight articles are placed in contactwith the pre-loaded force sensor.

The conductive traces and patches discussed below will generally referto PEDOT or other highly conductive material, generally on the order ofless than 50 ohms, as the deposited material. Any suitable conductivematerial may be used in place of PEDOT in this disclosure, such ascarbon allotropes, such as carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene;conductive polymers, such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) or PEDOT(or sometimes PEDT); or metal oxides, such as zinc oxide or indium tinoxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO) orgallium zinc oxide (GZO).

The FSR devices disclosed below are formed as a membrane that is capableof detecting pressure inputs, such as inventory items, and varyingapplications of pressure, such as weight. A transparent or opaque forcesensing membrane is formed with carbon nanotubes, conductive polymers,graphene or other conductive or semi-conductive material by using twosheet of MYLAR® (polyethylene) or other clear or opaque substrate coatedwith oriented patches of conductive polymer, micro-particle deposits orcarbon nanotubes (CNT).

The coating process includes conductive particles or micro-particlessuch as zinc oxide, carbon or other suitable materials or carbonnanotubes mixed in an aqueous or other solution and deposited using anysuitable technique, such as aerosol jet deposition; or suitableprinting, such as screen, flexo, gravure, offset, litho or othersuitable method. The aqueous solution may be an alcohol carrier or othersuitable liquid and may also include one or more additives such as asuitable ionomer to bind the CNT to prevent the CNT from passing throughhuman skin or lung membranes. The clarity or light transmission of atransparent force sensing membrane can be rated at about 92%, which tothe human eye seems like looking through clear glass. Higher resistanceof the conductive particle patches can improve the light transmissionthrough the sensor. In an embodiment, conductive polymer patches, suchas PEDOT or other suitably conductive polymer, may be used to form forcesensing resistor (FSR) patches.

A transparent force sensing membrane is made by depositing conductiveparticles, such as CNT or other suitable semi-conductive particles, inFSR elements such as oriented patches on apposing surface of parallelsubstrates. An inventory item's input (contact) with the sensor surfaceis detectable when the conductive particles, tubes, wires or polymerelements in apposing patches are forced into contact with each other andwith the conductive traces when the input force is applied. The moreforce, the more conductive elements make contact allowing the electronsto travel from one conductive trace through the contacting F SR CNTpatches to a perpendicular conductive trace. Higher force also increasesthe contact area between the substrates that also increases conductancebetween conductive elements in contact on each substrate.

A small area of contact between apposing patches and their conductivetraces is made when an actuator (the inventory item, such as a vessel)makes initial contact with the sensor. As force is increased, the areaof contact increases, bringing more particles into play and thusincreasing the conductivity of the device.

A suitable force sensing membrane is made using two parallel substrates.A first substrate has rows and columns of conductive traces formed on afirst side of the substrate. Where the column traces intersect the rowtraces, the column traces are interrupted by forming an electricalconnection through the substrate from the first side to the second sideand crossing the row trace and then again forming an electricalconnection from the second side of the substrate to the first side ofthe substrate and connecting with the interrupted column trace.

In an embodiment, a dielectric or insulating pad can be printed over therow traces allowing an uninterrupted column trace to be depositedperpendicular to the row traces over the dielectric or insulating padswith a top coat of a suitable conductor such as silver. Parallel to thecolumn traces are short conductor leg traces. On the first side of thesecond substrate are deposited FSR elements such as patches ofconductive material such as CNT. When the substrates are orientedparallel with the first sides in apposition, the patches of theconductive material align over a column trace and a short leg trace suchthat pressure on the membrane causes one or more conductive patches toengage a column trace and a short leg trace forming a force sensitiveresistance circuit.

In an embodiment of the AFSR, the AFSR includes a generally planar firstsubstrate having a conductor surface and an opposing touch surface; aplurality of parallel conductive traces on the conductive surface of thefirst substrate; an array of conductive patches oriented betweenadjacent parallel conductive traces and each patch is electricallyconnected to the conductive traces on the conductive surface of thefirst substrate; a generally planar second substrate having a conductorsurface and an opposing touch surface; a plurality of parallelconductive traces on the conductive surface of the second substrate; anarray of conductive patches oriented between adjacent parallelconductive traces and each patch is electrically connected to theconductive traces on the conductive surface of the second substrate;wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are orientedparallel to each other with the conductive surfaces of each substrate inapposition and the plurality of parallel conductive traces on the firstsubstrate oriented perpendicular to the plurality of conductive traceson the second substrate; a plurality of insulating pads secured on theconductive traces on the first substrate where the perpendicular tracesof the second substrate intersect the traces of the first substrate; andmeans for pre-loading the first and second substrate to create apre-load force between the first and second substrate.

Referring to FIG. 3A, force sensing assembly 10 includes force sensorarray 11 which is formed from one or more force sensing resistorassemblies such as FSR assemblies 12, 14, 16 and 18. Each FSR assemblyis oriented between parallel rows of conductor traces on each substratesuch as first traces 19 and second traces 21. FSR performance may beimproved by including a highly conductive pad or patch between thesubstrate and each FSR patch.

A force sensing assembly may be formed using two parallel substratessuch as first substrate 22 and second substrate 23 as illustrated inFIGS. 3B, 3C and 3D4. First substrate 22 has parallel conductive traces19 printed along with a conductive leg such as leg 12A for each FSRassembly such as FSR assembly 12. Second substrate 23 has parallelconductive traces 21 printed along with a conductive leg such as leg 12Bfor each FSR assembly such as FSR assembly 12. When first substrate 22and second substrate 23 are properly aligned with the deposited tracesand patches in apposition, first conductive traces 19 are orientedperpendicular to second perpendicular traces 21. Near each conductiveleg on each substrate, an FSR patch such as patch 24 and patch 25 aredeposited. Insulating elements or pads such as insulator pads 26 aredeposited on either substrate over the conductive traces at the pointswhere the corresponding conductive trace on the other substrate would bein contact when the substrates are aligned in apposition as illustratedin FIGS. 3C and 3D. Insulating elements 26 separate the first conductorsfrom the second conductors. Optional, highly conductive patches may bedeposited between each FSR patch and the substrate that supports it. Forexample, highly conductive patches 24B and 25B may be deposited betweenFSR patches 24 and 25 and substrates 22 and 23 respectively.

Controlling the dynamic range, the measured resistance of an FSR circuitas a function of applied force on the sensor, is possible by controllingthe size and texture of the conductive patches or electrodes as well asthe spacing between the electrodes on the sensor substrates as well asthe pre-load holding the substrates in contact without user input force.For example, using the aerosol jet deposition method to form theelectrodes or patches, such as patches 24 and 25 of FIG. 3D, a secondlayer, layer 27, of small dots or dashes 27A or other shapes over thebase conductor electrode may be applied in an effort to emulate thetexture of a thick-film silver and FSR deposition. A thick-film FSR hasa better dynamic range when used in conjunction with a thick-film silverelectrode with few small conductive peaks or spots as opposed to using a“flat” copper trace. Having too many spots or peaks causes the electrodeto behave similar to a smooth flat conductor. This contact state, orpre-load state may form the lower threshold for switch or sensor closurethus eliminating low contact noise and inconsistencies between sensors.Pre-loading an FSR also reduces the dynamic range of the sensor.

Referring now to FIG. 3D, first substrate 22 has first conductive tracessuch as traces 19A and 19B, conductive leg 12A and first FSR patch 24deposited on a first surface such as conductor surface 22A. Secondsubstrate 23 has second conductive traces such as traces 21A and 21B,conductive leg 12B and second FSR patch 25 deposited on a first surfacesuch as conductor surface 23A. Each substrate has a corresponding secondsurface such as second surfaces 22B and 23B respectively. When twoprinted substrates are aligned in parallel, the first surfaces of eachsubstrate are aligned in apposition with the parallel traces on eachsubstrate oriented perpendicular to the conductive traces of theapposing substrate yielding a force sensing assembly such as forcesensing assembly 10 with the second surfaces of each substrate operatingas a contact surface for the application of force to be detected andmeasured.

In use, pressure on the second surfaces 22B or 23B of either first orsecond substrate at or near an FSR assembly such as FSR assembly 12 willcreate a force sensitive circuit such as circuit 30 of FIG. 3E thatextends from first conductive trace 19A to second conductive trace 21Athrough the three resistive elements described below. First resistiveelement 32 is formed by the interaction of a portion of second FSR patch25 with conductive leg 12A. Second resistive element 33 is formed by theinteraction of a portion of first FSR patch 24 with second FSR patch 25.Third resistive element 34 is formed by the interaction of a portion offirst FSR patch 24 with conductive leg 12B. The resistance value of eachresistive element is proportional to the pressure applied to thesubstrate and the location of the pressure.

The disclosure of AFSR and FSR can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,489,302;4,314,227; 9,599,525; and 9,903,771, which are herein incorporated byreference in their entirety.

In an embodiment of the system, the at least one radio field antenna isnot generally limited, so long as the radio field antenna is capable ofreceiving a radio field tag code from a radio field tag brought intoproximity to the inventory device. In an embodiment, the at least oneradio field antenna includes an active radio field antenna, wherein theactive radio field antenna is connected to or receives power from apower source and is capable of transmitting an interrogator radio signalto a radio field tag. In an embodiment of the system, an active radiofield antenna can be coupled with a passive radio frequencyidentification tag, battery assisted radio frequency identification tag,an active radio frequency identification tag, or a passive nearfieldtag. In an embodiment, the active radio field antenna can be coupledwith a passive radio field tag, because the active radio field antennacan, if necessary, broadcast a radio signal strong enough to power orassist in powering the integrated circuit of the radio field tag,especially a passive radio field tag or a passive near field tag. In anembodiment, the at least one radio field antenna includes a passiveradio field antenna, wherein the passive radio field antenna is notconnected to a power source and is capable of receiving a radiofrequency signal from an active radio field tag or a battery-assistedradio field tag. In an embodiment of the inventory device and system,the at least one radio field antenna is configured to, designed to, orcapable of transmitting a radio signal having a frequency including fromabout 865 MHz to about 868 MHz (common in Europe), from about 902 MHz toabout 928 MHz (common in North America), from about 125 MHz to about 134kHz (low frequency), at about 13.56 MHz (high frequency and nearfield),and/or from about 856 MHz to about 960 MHz.

In an embodiment of the system and the inventory device, the size andnumber of radio field antennas is not generally limited so long as atleast one radio field antenna is located within range to receive asignal from the radio field tag, optionally, through a weighing surface.In an embodiment of the inventory device, the inventory device containsfrom 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 weighing surfaces, wherein the weighingsurface(s) has at least one radio field antenna located in between theweighing surface and a bottom of the inventory device. One benefit ofthis embodiment can be that the inventory device can identify and weighfrom 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 tagged inventory items simultaneously or in anysequence. In an embodiment of the inventory device, the length and widthof a radio field antenna independently range from about 2 cm to about 30cm, including from about 5 cm to about 20 cm. In an embodiment of theinventory device, the thickness of the radio field antenna ranges fromabout 1 mm to about 30 mm, including from about 2 mm to about 20 mm.

In an embodiment, the inventory device includes a weighing surface. Thematerial and dimensions of the weighing surface are not generallylimited so long as the material and dimensions of the weighing surfaceallow at least a portion of the weight (force exerted by gravity) of aninventory device to be transferred through the weighing surface to thearray of force sensing resistors (AFSR) and permits a radio signal topass through the material of the weighing surface. In an embodiment, theweighing surface can be an exterior membrane layer of the at least oneforce sensing array. In an embodiment, the weighing surface is part ofthe top of the inventory device. In an embodiment, the material of theweighing surface can be the same or different from the material of thetop, bottom, or side of the inventory device. In an embodiment, thematerial of the weighing surface is a flexible polymer or rubber,including MYLAR®, neoprene, natural rubber, polybutadiene, polysiloxane,ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, styrene butadiene, isobutyleneisoprene, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, and the like.

In an embodiment of the inventory device, the length and width of theinventory device are not generally limited, so long as the taggedinventory item to be weighted and identified can be placed and/or storedon top of the inventory device. In an embodiment, the length and thewidth of the inventory device can each independently range from about 4cm to about 200 cm, including from about 8 cm to about 90 cm. In anembodiment of the inventory device, the thickness of the inventorydevice can range from about 0.5 cm to about 5 cm, including from about 1cm to about 3 cm. In an embodiment of the inventory device, the materialof the top, bottom, side, and weighing surface of the inventory devicecan each independently be the same or different. In an embodiment, thetop, bottom, and side of the inventory device can be a flexible orinflexible material, including a metal, a wood, a plastic, and/or arubber, and the like. In an embodiment, the top, bottom, side, andweighing surface of the inventory device can be a single material suchas a neoprene sleeve capable of containing the array of force sensingresistors and at least one radio field antenna. In an embodiment, theconfiguration of the top, bottom, side, and weighing surface of theinventory device are impermeable or resistant to the passage of liquids,especially water and aqueous mixtures. One benefit of a waterproof orwater resistant inventory device can be a resistance to damage fromspills.

In an embodiment of the system and inventory device, a light source islocated on an exterior of the inventory device, wherein the exterior ofthe device can include the top, bottom, or side of the device. The lightsource is not general limited so long as the light source is visibleoutside of the inventory device. In an embodiment, the light source is alight emitting diode (LED) or incandescent bulb. In an embodiment, thelight source is configured to or capable of providing continuous lightor a pattern of light, such as blinking. In an embodiment, the lightsource is configured to or capable of providing or contributing toambient light outside of the device. In an embodiment, the light sourceis configured to or capable of indicating system status, such asindicating when the system is rebooting, a status of power on, a statusof power off, or system processing, such as during the process ofweighing and/or identifying a tagged inventory item.

In an embodiment, the inventory device has an array port connected by anarray data wire to the array of force sensing resistors. In anembodiment, the inventory device has an antenna port connected by anantenna data wire to the at least one radio field antenna. In anembodiment, the inventory device has a power port which can be connectedto the array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radio fieldantenna. In an embodiment, the array port and the antenna port can beany device capable of communicating electrical or optical signals,including computer ports, including a PS/2 connector, Parallel port, VGAport, Micro-DVI port, High Definition Media Interface, an Ethernet port(RJ-45 port), RJ-11, a serial port, or external Serial AT Attachmentport, or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. In an embodiment, the powerport can be any port capable of receiving AC or DC current, includingone capable of connecting to and receiving power from a USB connector ora barrel jack power cable connector. In embodiment, the array port andantenna port are consolidated into a combined communication port. In anembodiment, at least one of the array port and the antenna port areconsolidated with the power port to provide an ultra-port capable ofpassing signals and electrical current. In an embodiment, the ultra-portis a USB port. In an embodiment, at least one of the array port, theantenna port, the power port, the combined communication port, andultra-port is located on the top, bottom, and/or side of the inventorydevice.

In an embodiment, the inventory device can include a sensor, including atemperature probe, such as a thermocouple or digital thermometer.

A radio field tag is disclosed herein. Referring to FIG. 4 , in anembodiment, the system includes a radio field tag 400. In an embodiment,the radio field tag 400 includes an item adhesive layer 410 and anintegrated circuit layer 406, wherein the integrated circuit layer 406includes an integrated circuit 402 and, optionally, an integratedcircuit support 404. In an embodiment, the radio field tag 400 includesa concentrating layer 408 between the integrated circuit layer 406 andthe item adhesive layer 412. In an embodiment, the radio field tag 400includes a circuit adhesive layer 412, wherein the circuit adhesivelayer 412 attaches, directly or indirectly, at least a portion of theintegrated circuit layer 406 to a least a portion of the concentratinglayer 408. In an embodiment, the radio field tag 400 includes an itemadhesive layer 410, wherein the item adhesive layer 410 attaches,directly or indirectly, at least a portion of the concentrating layer408 to at least a portion of the adhesive backing 414 or an inventoryitem (not shown in FIG. 4 ). In an embodiment, the radio field tag 400includes the following layers in order: an integrated circuit layer 406,a circuit adhesive layer 412, a concentrating layer 408, and an itemadhesive layer 410, wherein each layer is directly or indirectly incontact with an adjacent layer, if any.

In an embodiment of the system, the radio field tag is a passive radiofrequency identification tag, a battery assisted radio frequencyidentification tag, an active radio frequency identification tag, or apassive nearfield tag. In an embodiment, the radio frequency tag is apassive radio field tag, wherein the integrated circuit of the radiofield tag is not connected to a power source and is capable of using aradio signal from the at least one radio field antenna to charge up andtransmit a radio field identification code. In an embodiment, the radiofield tag is a battery assisted radio frequency tag, wherein theintegrated circuit of the battery assisted radio frequency tag hasaccess to or is connected to a battery power source, and is capable ofdrawing sufficient charge from the battery and/or the radio signal fromthe radio field antenna to charge up and transmit a radio fieldidentification code. In an embodiment of the radio field tag, the radiofield tag is an active radio frequency tag, wherein integrated circuitof the active radio frequency tag has access to or is connected to anon-battery power source and is capable of drawing sufficient chargefrom the non-battery power source and/or the radio signal from the atleast one radio field antenna to charge up and transmit a radio fieldidentification code to the at least one radio field antenna. One benefitof a passive radio frequency tag can be the low cost of the tags. In anembodiment, the radio field tag includes a passive radio frequency tag,which includes a commercially available radio frequency identificationtag. One benefit of a battery assisted radio frequency tag and an activeradio frequency tag can be an increased detection range for transmittingthe radio field identification code. In an embodiment of the radio fieldtag, the integrated circuit is a near field compatible radio frequencytag functioning at or capable of transmitting a radio fieldidentification code at about 13.56 MHz. One benefit of a near fieldcompatible radio frequency tag can be its compatibility with cell phonetechnology.

In an embodiment, the system includes a radio field tag code. In anembodiment, the radio field tag code is or includes a radio frequencyidentification code. In an embodiment, the radio frequencyidentification code is transmitted from the radio field tag to the radiofield antenna. In an embodiment, the radio field tag code or radiofrequency identification code is a unique code. In an embodiment, theradio field tag code or radio frequency identification code is anon-unique code that can be applied to a type of inventory item.

In an embodiment, the radio field tag includes a circuit adhesive layer.The circuit adhesive layer is not limited so long as the circuitadhesive layer attaches at least a portion of the integrated circuitlayer to a least a portion of the concentrating layer and does notprevent the integrated circuit from transmitting a radio field tag code.Suitable adhesives for the circuit adhesive layer includecyanoacrylates, silicone resins, polyimides, and combinations ormixtures thereof. A benefit of the circuit adhesive layer can bereducing manufacturing costs by allowing the integrated circuit layerand concentration layer to be separately manufactured and/orcommercially purchased before adhering the integrated circuit layer tothe concentration layer.

In an embodiment, the radio field tag includes an item adhesive layer.The item adhesive layer is not limited so long as the item adhesivelayer attaches at least a portion of the concentrating layer to a leasta portion of the inventory item, forming a tagged inventory item, anddoes not prevent the integrated circuit from transmitting a radio fieldtag code. Suitable adhesives for the item adhesive layer include anepoxy, a polyurethane, a cyanoacrylate, a silicone resin, a polyimide,and acrylic polymer, and combinations or mixtures thereof. In anembodiment, the item adhesive layer includes a permanent adhesive,wherein the permanent adhesive is a formulation known in the art to bedifficult to remove without damaging the radio field tag. One benefit ofthe item adhesive layer can be the difficulty of accidently removing thelabel when the tagged inventory item, including a vessel, is handledrepeatedly. Another benefit of the item adhesive layer can be thedifficulty of switching the labels, which could prevent or reduce theftof the inventory item.

In an embodiment, the radio field tag includes an integrated circuitsupport. In an embodiment, the integrated circuit layer includes anintegrated circuit support. The integrated circuit support is notlimited so long as it allows for the integrated circuit to be attached,directly or indirectly, to the concentrating layer and does not preventthe integrated circuit from transmitting a radio field tag code.Suitable materials include paper and/or plastic products.

In an embodiment, the radio field tag includes a concentrating layer. Inan embodiment, the radio field tag includes an item adhesive layer, aconcentrating layer, and an integrated circuit layer. In an embodiment,the concentrating layer is in contact, directly or indirectly, with andlocated between the item adhesive layer and the integrated circuitlayer. The concentrating layer is not generally limited so long as theconcentrating layer at least partially separates the item adhesive layerfrom the integrated circuit layer. It has been discovered that where thetagged inventory item is a vessel containing a liquid, directlyattaching the integrated circuit and/or integrated circuit layer to theitem adhesive layer without the concentrating layer resulted in poorreception of the radio field tag code. It is believed that this poorreception is due, at least in part, to the dissipation of the radiosignal into the liquid content of the vessel. In has been discoveredthat this problem can be eliminated or reduced by including aconcentrating layer at least partially between the integrated circuitand the item adhesive layer. In an embodiment, the concentrating layerincludes a radio signal enhancing material. Suitable radio signalenhancing materials includes a solid foam, such as a polystyrofoam, afoam rubber, a silicone foam, a polyurethane foam, or a combinationthereof. In an embodiment, the concentrating layer enhances an amount ofradio signal from the radio field tag to the at least one radio fieldantenna relative to a radio field tag without the concentrating layer.In an embodiment, the concentrating layer reduces the amount of powerneeded by the integrated circuit and/or the radio field antenna totransmit a radio field tag code from the integrated circuit to the atleast one radio field antenna. One benefit of the concentrating layercan be quicker transmission of the radio field tag code, allowing for anincreased distance between a tagged inventory item and an inventorydevice during code transmission. One benefit of the concentrating layercan be decreasing power consumption of the inventory device and/or radiofield tag during use.

In an embodiment, the radio field tag includes an adhesive backing. Inan embodiment, the radio field tag excludes an adhesive backing. Theadhesive backing is not generally limited so long as the adhesivebacking can be removed from the item adhesive layer without damaging oneor more of the other layers of the radio field tag. Suitable materialsincludes wax paper and the like. A benefit of the adhesive backing canbe that it allows for the radio field tag to be shipped withoutaccidental adhesion of the item adhesion layer to an item other than aninventory item. Another benefit of the adhesive backing can be that itallows a user to quickly and easily remove the adhesive backing withoutdamaging any other layer of the radio field tag, and to attach the radiofield tag to an inventory item as with any other inventory sticker.

In an embodiment, the radio field tag includes an integrated circuit, aconcentrating layer, and an item adhesive layer, wherein the inintegrated circuit attaches, directly or indirectly, to theconcentrating layer.

In an embodiment of the system, the system includes a tagged inventoryitem. In embodiment, the tagged inventory item includes a radio fieldtag, without an adhesive backing, attached to an inventory item. In anembodiment, the inventory item or tagged inventory item is a package orvessel containing an amount of content. In an embodiment, the inventoryitem or tagged inventory item is an opened package or opened vesselcontaining an amount of content. In an embodiment, the vessel or openedvessel includes a solid, a liquid, a slurry, a particulate, or acombination thereof. One benefit of the system can be determining ormeasuring an amount of content in a vessel or opened vessel, where thecontent varies due to an increase or decrease of an amount of thecontent. For example, if the tagged inventory item includes a vessel oropened vessel containing an amount of liquid, such as an alcoholicbeverage, then an amount of content can be measured at various times totrack the amount of content as the various amounts of content areremoved over time and use. Unless otherwise noted, an “opened package”or “opened vessel” refers to a package or vessel, respectively, where atleast one seal is broken, such that an amount of content of the packageor vessel can be removed.

Referring to FIG. 5 , in an embodiment, the system 500 can include aninventory item 502, an array of force sensing resistors 504, a radiofield tag 506, at least one radio field antenna 508, a system processor510, and at least one of a database 512, a network 514, and the display516. In an embodiment, an array of force sensing resistors 504 areconfigured to, capable of, or positioned to detect and/or measure aweight of the inventory item 502. In an embodiment, the at least oneradio field antenna 508 is configured to, capable of, or positioned toreceive a radio field tag code from the radio field tag. In anembodiment, the at least one radio field antenna is configured to orcapable of communicating with a system processor 510. In an embodiment,the array of force sensing resistors is configured to or capable ofcommunicating with a system processor 510. In an embodiment, the systemprocessor 510 is configured to, connected to, or capable ofcommunicating with at least one of a data base 512, a network 514, and adisplay 516, or a combination thereof.

In an embodiment, the system includes a system processor. The systemprocessor is not generally limited so long as the system processor allowfor the processing of signals, including at least one of a measurementtime, a measurement date, a radio field tag code, a tagged inventoryitem identity, a temperature, a weight, and an inventory device code,according to a software program. Suitable system processors include anyelectronic circuitry capable of carrying out the instructions of asoftware program by performing basic arithmetic, logical, control and/orinput/output (I/O) operations specified by the program. Suitable systemprocessors can be found in computers, desktop, laptops, registers,tablets, cellphones, and the like. In an embodiment, the systemprocessor is configured to or capable of communicating with the array offorce sensing resistors and/or at least one radio field antenna througha wired or wireless communication system. The communication system isnot generally limited so long as it allows for data to be transmittedfrom the array of force sensing resistors and/or at least one radiofield antenna to the system processor. Suitable communication system,include a data cable, including a USB cable, and/or a wirelesstechnology, including mobile broadband, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth devices.

In an embodiment, the system includes a database. The data base is notgenerally limited so long as the data base allows for the storage ofdata, including reading and writing data, and for that data to beaccessed electronically. In an embodiment, the data base includes a harddrive, a flash drive, or a network drive. In an embodiment, the database stores data, including at least one of a measurement time, ameasurement date, a radio field tag code, a tagged inventory itemidentity, a temperature, a weight, and an inventory device code.

In an embodiment, the system includes a network. The network is notgenerally limited so long as the network allows for data to becommunicated, processed, and stored remotely through an internet or anintranet. Suitable networks include commercially availablecloud-computing platforms and services. One benefit of a network is thatthe system can pass data to a cloud based platform, where the data canbe monitored, analyzed, and/or acted on. For example, a cloud basedprogram can monitor inventory, capture sales data, and reorder inventoryitems in real time.

In an embodiment, the system includes a display. The display is notgenerally limited so long as the display allows for data from the systemprocessor to be electronically shown or depicted on a screen. Suitabledisplays include a computer display, a television, a laptop screen, acell phone screen, a tablet screen, or the screen of any electronicimaging device.

A method is disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method includes aninventory method. In an embodiment, the inventory method includesmonitoring an inventory of multiple tagged inventory items on multipleinventory devices, optionally, in real time. In an embodiment, themethod includes providing or obtaining a system as described above.

Referring to FIG. 6 , in an embodiment, the method includes 602detecting a weight change when a tagged inventory item is placed intocontact with or on top of the weighing surface; and 604 turning on orpowering up the at least one radio field antenna in response to thedetected weight change. In an embodiment, the method includes 606measuring a weight of the tagged inventory item and 608 identifying thetagged inventory item by the at least one radio field antenna,simultaneously or in any order. In an embodiment, the method includes610 transmitting at least one of a weight and a radio field tag code tothe system processor. In an embodiment, the weight is transmitted fromthe array of force sensing resistors. In an embodiment, the radio fieldtag code is transmitted from the at least one radio field antenna. In anembodiment, the method includes 612 transmitting at least one of ameasurement time, a measurement date, a radio field tag code, a taggedinventory item identity, a temperature, a weight, and an inventorydevice code from the system processor to at least one of the database,the network, and the display. In an embodiment, the method includes 614turning off or powering down the at least one radio field antenna aftercommunicating or transmitting a radio field tag code to the systemprocessor.

In an embodiment, the method includes attaching a radio field tag to asurface of an inventory item, forming a tagged inventory item. In anembodiment, the method includes attaching a radio field tag to a surfaceof an inventory item before, during, or after the item is added toinventory. In an embodiment, the method includes attaching a radio fieldtag to a surface of an inventory item before, during, or after theinventory item is opened, forming an tagged inventory item, including anopened tagged inventory item. In an embodiment, the method includesopening a tagged inventory item to remove an amount of content.

In an embodiment, a plurality of tagged inventory items are stored on aplurality of inventory devices for a duration of from minutes to years.In an embodiment, the method includes removing a tagged inventory itemfrom the inventory device. In an embodiment, the method includesremoving or adding an amount of content to the tagged inventory item. Inan embodiment, the method includes removing or adding an amount ofcontent from the tagged inventory item, while the tagged inventory itemremains on the inventory device. One benefit of the method disclosedherein can be maintaining, tracking, or monitoring an inventory in realtime by monitoring a plurality of tagged inventory items stored on aplurality of inventory devices.

In an embodiment, the method includes placing a tagged inventory item onan inventory device. In an embodiment, the method includes the array offorce sensing resistors detecting a weight change. In an embodiment, themethod includes the array of force sensing resistors transmitting orcommunicating at least one of a weight, a time, and an inventory devicecode from the array of force sensing resistors to the system processor.In an embodiment, the system processor accesses the data based to detector determine if the measured weight differs from the last previousweight that corresponds to the last tagged inventory item from thecorresponding inventory device. If no weight change is detected, thenthe system processor remains idle or takes no further action. If aweight change is detected, then the system processor transmits a signalto the inventory device, turning on or powering up the at least oneradio field antenna. In an embodiment of the method, the weight changecan include about 25.0 g to about 45.0 kg, including from about 50.0 gto about 40.0 kg, including from about 75 g to about 35 kg. In anembodiment of the method, the system processor can transmit a signal tothe at least one radio field antenna, turning off the radio fieldantenna. One benefit of an embodiment of the system and method disclosedherein can be that the at least one radio field antenna is turned onduring from about 1 s to about 5 min after a weight change is detected,instead of remaining on. One benefit of an embodiment of the system andmethod disclosed herein can be that the at least one radio field antennais turned off by the system processor from about 1 s to about 5 minafter weighing the tagged inventory item, instead of remaining on. Thisbenefit can reduce power consumption when tagged inventory items arestored on inventory devices without weight change for long periods oftime.

In an embodiment, the method includes accessing the database anddetermining the location of a tagged inventory item on an inventorydevice. In an embodiment, the method includes selecting one or moretagged inventory items, optionally on a display, and the systemprocessor transmitting a signal to the one or more correspondinginventory devices, turning on or changing the pattern of luminescence ofthe light source on the exterior of the inventory device.

It is understood that the data transmitted to the system processor andnetwork can be further processed and analyzed for monitoring theft,customer consumption trends, profit trends, reordering and deliveryschedules and the like.

In more detail,

Embodiment 1. A system comprising: a tagged inventory item, wherein thetagged inventory item includes a radio field tag attached to aninventory item; and an inventory device, wherein the inventory deviceincludes a weighing surface, an array of force sensing resistors, and atleast one radio field antenna, wherein the array of force sensingresistors and the at least one radio field antenna are configured toweigh and identify the tagged inventory item through the weighingsurface.

Embodiment 2. The system of any one of embodiments 1, 3-5 and 7-8,wherein the radio field tag includes an item adhesive layer, aconcentrating layer, and an integrated circuit layer, and wherein theconcentrating layer is in contact with and located between the itemadhesive layer and the integrated circuit layer.

Embodiment 3. The system of any one of embodiments 1-2, 4-5, and 7-8,wherein the radio field tag is a passive radio frequency identificationtag, a battery assisted radio frequency identification tag, an activeradio frequency identification tag, or a passive nearfield tag; whereinthe at least one radio field antenna includes an active radio fieldantenna or a passive radio field antenna.

Embodiment 4. The system of any one of embodiments 1-3, 5, and 7-8,wherein the concentrating layer includes a radio signal enhancingmaterial.

Embodiment 5. The system of any one of embodiments 1-4, and 7-8, whereinthe inventory device includes a top and a bottom, wherein the top of theinventory device includes the weighing surface, and the array of forcesensing resistors and the at least one radio field antenna are locatedbetween the top and the bottom of the inventory device.

Embodiment 6. The system of embodiment 5, wherein the array of forcesensing resistors is closer to the top of the inventory device than theat least one radio field antenna, and optionally, the array of forcesensing resistors is in contact with the top of the inventory device.

Embodiment 7. The system of any one of embodiments 1-5, and 8, whereinthe array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radio fieldantenna are configured to communicate with a system processor, andwherein the system processor is configured to communicate with at leastone of a database, a display, and a network.

Embodiment 8. The system of any one of embodiments 1-5, and 7, whereinthe inventory item includes a vessel containing an amount of content,wherein the content includes a solid, a liquid, a slurry, a particulate,or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 9. The system of embodiment 2, wherein the inventory itemincludes a vessel containing an amount of content, wherein the contentincludes a solid, a liquid, a slurry, a particulate, or a combinationthereof and wherein the concentrating layer enhances an amount of radiosignal from radio field tag to the at least one radio field antenna.

Embodiment 10. A method comprising: providing a system that includes; atagged inventory item, wherein the tagged inventory item includes anradio field tag attached to an inventory item; and an inventory device,wherein the inventory device includes a weighing surface, an array offorce sensing resistors, and at least one radio field antenna, whereinthe array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radio fieldantenna are configured to weigh and identify the tagged inventory itemthrough the weighing surface; detecting a weight change of from about25.0 g to about 45.0 kg when the tagged inventory item is placed intocontact with the weighing surface of the inventory device; measuring aweight of the tagged inventory item; and identifying the taggedinventory item by turning on the at least one radio field antenna.

Embodiment 11. The method of any one of embodiments 10, and 12-15,wherein the array of force sensing resistors and the at least one radiofield antenna are configured to communicate with a system processor,wherein the system processor is configured to communicate with at leastone of a database, a network, and a display.

Embodiment 12. The method of any one of embodiments 10-11, and 13-15,the method further comprising: transmitting at least one of ameasurement time, a measurement date, a radio field tag code, a taggedinventory item identity, a temperature, a weight, and an inventorydevice code from the system processor to at least one of the database,the network, and the display.

Embodiment 13. The method of any one of embodiments 10-12 and 14-15,wherein the at least one radio field antenna is turned on in response tothe array of force sensing resistors detecting the weight change of fromabout 25.0 g to about 45.0 kg.

Embodiment 14. The method of any one of embodiments 10-13 and 15,further comprising: turning off the at least one radio field antennaafter communicating a radio field tag code to a system processor.

Embodiment 15. The method of any one of embodiments 10-14, wherein theinventory item includes a vessel containing an amount content, whereinthe content includes a solid, a liquid, a slurry, a particulate, or acombination thereof.

In even more detail,

In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates generally to a systemand method for inventory. In an embodiment, the present disclosure is asystem and method for inventory that detects, tracks, and characterizesinventory items and transactions.

In an embodiment, the present disclosure is a system and method ofdetecting, tracking, and characterizing inventory items and inventorytransactions at single or multiple locations in which a group of sensorarrays containing one or more sensing modalities is utilized to detectthe identity and location of an item when it is placed in contact withthe sensor array.

In an embodiment, the present disclosure is a system and method ofdetecting, tracking, and characterizing inventory items and inventorytransactions at single or multiple locations in which a group of sensorarrays containing one or more sensing modalities is utilized to detectthe identity and location of an item when it is placed in contact withthe sensor array. In an embodiment, the data from the sensor array istransmitted to a processing system where time information is collectedalong with the location and identity data. In an embodiment, theprocessing system will operate a program that will use the location andidentity data to collect characteristics of the located item fromsensors within the sensor array. In an embodiment, the data collected issent to a local or remote data storage for use in generating inventorylocation reports, monitoring reports, alarms, and usage tracking reportsfrom single or multiple locations.

In an embodiment, the system can track, locate, and characterize aninventory item. In an embodiment, a remotely readable identification tagis affixed, printed, or included on the inventory item. In anembodiment, the identification is uniquely matched to the inventory itemand registered to a database through a data collection system using barcode, RF, or other tag readers appropriate for the identification tagtechnology.

In an embodiment, to track, locate, and characterize the inventory item,the areas where the inventory item will be equipped with a sensory arrayassembly. In an embodiment, the tracking, locating, and characterizingof the inventory item is achieved when the inventory item is placed onthe sensory array assembly. In an embodiment, the sensory array assemblydetects, locates, and measures items placed on its surface by detectingthe pressure pattern applied by an inventory item placed on the pad. Inan embodiment, the pad contains an array of pressure sensors utilizingcapacitive or resistive pressure sensing technology. In an embodiment,when an inventory item is placed on the sensory array assembly, thepressure sensor array detects the shape and weight of inventory items.In an embodiment, the shape is used to identify and locate the inventoryitem. In an embodiment, the weight is used to measure the weight of theinventory item.

In an embodiment, the sensory array contains an array of non-contactingidentification detectors such as RFID, NFC, or bar code. In anembodiment, the detection of the inventory item and the determination ofthe location of the inventory item by the pressure sensor array is usedto detect the unique identification tag of the inventory item by usingtrigger the nearest remote reader located in the sensory array assemblyto “read” the identification tag. In an embodiment, event dataconsisting of the event time, unique identification number, location,pressure profile, and weight is transmitted to a database for storageand analysis.

In an embodiment, the database will collect tracking data for eachunique inventory item. In an embodiment, starting with the initialpressure pattern and weight, the location and weight of the inventoryitem over time can be tracked. In an embodiment, the user will be ableto determine instantaneous location and weight of individual inventoryitems and groups of inventory items. In an embodiment, the placement andremoval of inventory items from the pad can be used to track inventoryevents over time and trigger processing and analysis functions. In anembodiment, the database can also output inventory usage data to pointof sale and automated ordering systems.

Embodiment 21. In an embodiment, an inventory tracking systemcomprising: a physical platform containing multiple layers of sensingarrays to detect, locate and characterize an object placed on theplatform; a data collection device to receive detected signals from thesensing arrays; a processing system to collect, time tag, package andtransmit the array data as object transaction information; a remote datastorage and processing center to generate reports on the status of aninventory item a group of inventory items, a location, or group oflocations.

Embodiment 22. The method of embodiment 21, wherein: the pressure sensorarray layer in the platform detects the pressure of an inventory objectwhen the object is placed on the platform. The data collection deviceprovides pressure array information to the processor system. Theprocessing system recognizes changes in the pressure array signals as aninventory object that has been placed on the platform and triggers a newinventory object transaction. The processing system uses the pressuresensor array data to determine the location of the object and activatesthe nearest RFID sensor in the antenna array layer of the platform. Theidentification code of the RFID tag attached to the inventory object iscollected. The processing system combines the pressure sensor arraydata, location, and RFID tag with time data to generate an inventoryobject transaction and transmits the transaction data to a remote datastorage and processing center. The data storage and processing centercollects and analyzes transaction data transmitted from a network ofprocessing systems. The location and location change history of aninventory object can be tracked as the inventory object is placed invarious locations within a platform or between platforms. The pressureprofile and or weight data of an inventory object or group of inventoryobjects is determined over time to track the change in pressure profileor weight of an inventory object.

Embodiment 23. The method of embodiment 22, wherein: the system is usedto track inventory object consisting of RFID tagged containers ofliquids in installation locations that may contain any number ofplatforms. The processing system and or the data storage and processingcenter collects registration data that assigns the inventory object'sdescription to the unique RFID tag number of each container. Theplatforms are used to hold RFID tagged containers of liquids. Theprocessing system detects the location, identification, and weight of acontainer when the container is placed to the platform. Time trackeddata is collected each time the container is replaced on any location onany platform. The data storage and processing center uses thetransaction data from the processing systems at each installed locationto generate liquid usage reports that can be provided to the user eitherby individual container, by groups of containers, by platform, byinstallation location, or by region.

Embodiment 24. The method of embodiment 23 wherein: RFIDs carried byeither operators or devices that remove and replace liquid containersare detected by the antenna sensor array in the platform. The identityof the operator or device is included in the inventory transaction data.The processing system and or the data storage and processing center cangenerate usage reports by operator or device for performance, billingpurposes.

Embodiment 25. The method of embodiment 24 wherein: the platform isconcealed within a surface for tracking inventory object changes inlocation and pressure profile in a clandestine manner.

Embodiment 26. The method of embodiment 25 wherein: the platform isconcealed within a surface for tracking inventory object changes inlocation and pressure profile by operator or device in a clandestinemanner.

Embodiment 27. The method of embodiment 26, wherein: the platform islocated within a large temperature controlled oven, freezer, orrefrigerator. The pressure sensor array layer in the platform detectsthe pressure of an inventory object when the object is placed on theplatform. The data collection device provides pressure array informationto the processor system. The processing system recognizes changes in thepressure array signals as an inventory object that has been placed onthe platform and triggers a new inventory object transaction. Theprocessing system uses the pressure sensor array data to determine thelocation of the object and activates the nearest RFID sensor in theantenna array layer of the platform and the nearest temperature sensorin the temperature sensor array layer of the platform. Theidentification code of the RFID tag attached to the inventory object iscollected. The processing system combines the temperature, location, andRFID tag with time data to generate an inventory object transaction andtransmits the transaction data to a remote data storage and processingcenter. The processor and or the data storage and processing center willperiodically collect the temperature data from each of the inventoryitems. The data storage and processing center collects and analyzestransaction data transmitted from a network of processing systems. Thelocation and temperature of an inventory object can be tracked as theinventory object is placed in various locations within a platform orbetween platforms. The temperature data of an inventory object or groupof inventory objects is determined over time to track the change intemperature of an inventory object.

Embodiment 28. The method of embodiment 27, wherein: the temperature ofproducts being baked in a large oven is monitored. RFID tags are appliedto the baking container on placed within the baking container. The typeof product and its baking parameters are assigned to the RFID when thecontainer is filled and registered prior to baking. If products aremoved within the oven the platform will track the location utilize thenearest temperature sensor in the temperature sensor array. The operatorwill receive a notification when an individual product has completed thebaking cycle including the location to aid in removing the product thathas completed baking from the oven.

EXAMPLES Functional Components Identification Tag

RFID Tags, such as the ALIEN® PEARL™ (PE) shown in FIG. 7 , arecommercially purchased from Starport Technologies (Kansas City, Mo.).

A Foam Adhesive, such as SCOTCH® Foam Mounting Tape, is commerciallypurchased from 3M® (Maplewood, Minn.).

Pressure Sensing

An FSR Array, such as the Thru Mode FSR Matrix Array shown in the righthand side of FIG. 10 , is commercially purchased from SENSITRONICS, LLC®(Bow, Wash.).

An FSR to USB Interface, such as the MP2508 or Snowboard 2, shown in theleft hand side of FIG. 10 , can be commercially purchased from Kitronyx(Seoul, Korea).

Identification Sensor

An OmniDirectional RFID Antenna, such as the CAF95956 can becommercially purchased from LAIRD TECHNOLOGIES® (Chesterfield, Mo.).

An RFID Reader, such as the ThingMagic USB Pro can be commerciallypurchased from JADAK TECHNOLOGIES® (North Syracuse, N.Y.)

Client Platform

A Laptop PC can be commercially purchased. (HP® INTEL® CORE™ i7 LaptopPC M6-W105DX HEWLETT PACKARD®, INC; Palo Alto, Calif.)

ARDUINO® Snowboard Interface Software can be commercially purchased fromKitronyx (Seoul, Korea).

Snowforce Application Software can be commercially purchased fromKitronyx (Seoul, Korea).

ThingMagic Universal Reader Assistant Software can be commerciallypurchased from JADAK TECHNOLOGIES® (North Syracuse, N.Y.).

Spreadsheet Software (MICROSOFT® Office 360 EXCEL® can be commerciallypurchased from MICROSOFT® (Redmond, Wash.).

Experimental

A proof of concept experimental preparation can be made from availablematerials. The experimental preparation can perform the functions ofpressure mapping, identification, and processing. The components of thesensor mat are stacked as described in embodiments herein for thepurpose of detecting the pressure pattern and identification of a taggedinventory item. The output of the sensor mat is connected to the ClientPlatform using USB interfaces.

The pressure pattern detection can be accomplished using a FSR Arrayconnected to a USB interface. The FSR array to USB interface output isprovided to the Client Platform through the USB interface.

The identification detection can be accomplished using anOmniDirectional RFID Antenna connected to an RFID Reader. The RFIDReader output is provided to the Client Platform using a USB interface.

The sensor mat can be realized by attaching the FSR array to the top ofthe RFID antenna. The FSR array is connected to the FSR array to USBInterface. The RFID antenna is connected the RFID reader. Both the FSRarray to USB Interface and the RFID reader are connected to the ClientPlatform.

Processing of the pressure array and RFID data is performed by theClient Platform. The Client Platform can be implemented using a LaptopPC with a Windows 10 Operating System. The pressure data can be read onthe Client Platform using Arduino Snowboard Interface Software withSnowforce Application Software. The RFID data can be read on the ClientPlatform using ThingMagic Universal Reader Assistant Software. Numericpreparation of the data and database functions can be performed usingSpreadsheet Software.

The inventory item tag can be prepared by applying an RFID tag that canbe attached to an inventory item using foam mounting tape to provide anembodiment of a radio field tag, as shown in FIG. 8 .

The experiment is conducted to demonstrate that a tagged inventory itemcan be identified and associated with its pressure pattern for thepurposes of tracking the identification and weight of a tagged inventoryitem over time. An identification tag is prepared by preprogramming aninventory item tag with a unique test identification code. Theprogrammed tag is applied to the bottom surface of an inventory itemcontaining liquid. The inventory item is placed on the sensor mat. TheFSR array detects the pressure pattern of the inventory item and a dataarray is calculated by the Snowforce Application Software. The data fromthe identification tag is read by the RFID reader and is transferred tothe Universal Reader Assistant Software. A test reading entry is made inthe spreadsheet software by combining the RFID reader identificationdata with the Snowboard Application Software pressure array data andattaching the time. The data entry is added to a sample database in thespreadsheet software. The experiment continues by removing liquid fromthe inventory item and taking additional readings. Various inventoryrelated information can be calculated by processing the information inthe database.

What is claimed is:
 1. A radio field tag for identifying a tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry, comprising: an integrated circuit layer, a concentrating layer, and an item adhesive layer, wherein the integrated circuit layer includes an integrated circuit, wherein the concentrating layer is located between the integrated circuit layer and the item adhesive layer, wherein the circuit adhesive layer attaches a portion of the integrated circuit layer to a portion of the concentrating layer, and wherein the item adhesive layer attaches a portion of the concentrating layer to the tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry, wherein the concentrating layer includes a radio signal enhancing material, and wherein the concentrating layer enhances an amount of radio signal from the radio field tag to an at least one radio field antenna relative to a radio field tag without the concentrating layer.
 2. The radio field tag of claim 1, wherein the integrated circuit layer is in direct contact with the circuit adhesive layer, wherein circuit adhesive layer is in direct contact with the concentrating layer, wherein concentrating layer is in direct contact with the item adhesive layer, and wherein the item adhesive layer is in direct contact with the tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry.
 3. The radio field tag of claim 1, wherein the radio signal enhancing material includes a solid foam.
 4. The radio field tag of claim 3, wherein the solid foam includes a polystyrene foam, a foam rubber, a silicone foam, a polyurethane foam, or a combination thereof.
 5. The radio field tag of claim 2, wherein the radio signal enhancing material includes a solid foam.
 6. The radio field tag of claim 5, wherein the solid foam includes a polystyrene foam, a foam rubber, a silicone foam, a polyurethane foam, or a combination thereof.
 7. The radio field tag of claim 1, wherein the circuit adhesive layer, the concentrating layer, and the item adhesive layer includes an acrylic polymer, an acrylic co-polymer, or a combination thereof.
 8. The radio field tag of claim 1, wherein the item adhesive layer includes an epoxy, a polyurethane, a cyanoacrylate, a silicone resin, a polyimide, and acrylic polymer, and combinations or mixtures thereof; or wherein the circuit adhesive layer includes cyanoacrylates, silicone resins, polyimides, and combinations or mixtures thereof.
 9. The radio field tag of claim 1, wherein the integrated circuit of the radio field tag is not connected to a power source and is capable of using a radio signal from the at least one radio field antenna to charge up and transmit a radio field identification code; or wherein the integrated circuit is capable of drawing sufficient charge from a battery to charge up and transmit a radio field identification code; or wherein the integrated circuit has access to or is connected to a non-battery power source and is capable of drawing sufficient charge from the non-battery power source to charge up and transmit a radio field identification code to the at least one radio field antenna.
 10. A radio field tag for identifying a tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry, comprising: an integrated circuit layer, a concentrating layer, and an item adhesive layer, wherein the integrated circuit layer includes an integrated circuit, wherein the concentrating layer is located between the integrated circuit layer and the item adhesive layer, wherein the circuit adhesive layer attaches a portion of the integrated circuit layer to a portion of the concentrating layer, and wherein the item adhesive layer attaches a portion of the concentrating layer to an adhesive backing, wherein the concentrating layer includes a radio signal enhancing material, and wherein the concentrating layer enhances an amount of radio signal from the radio field tag to an at least one radio field antenna relative to a radio field tag without the concentrating layer.
 11. The radio field tag of claim 10, wherein the integrated circuit layer is in direct contact with the circuit adhesive layer, wherein circuit adhesive layer is in direct contact with the concentrating layer, wherein concentrating layer is in direct contact with the item adhesive layer, and wherein the item adhesive layer is in direct contact with the adhesive backing.
 12. The radio field tag of claim 11, wherein the radio signal enhancing material includes a polystyrene foam, a foam rubber, a silicone foam, a polyurethane foam, or a combination thereof.
 13. A method of identifying a tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry comprising: providing a radio field tag for identifying a tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry, wherein the radio field tag includes an integrated circuit layer, a concentrating layer, and an item adhesive layer, wherein the integrated circuit layer includes an integrated circuit, wherein the concentrating layer is located between the integrated circuit layer and the item adhesive layer, wherein the circuit adhesive layer attaches a portion of the integrated circuit layer to a portion of the concentrating layer, and wherein the item adhesive layer attaches a portion of the concentrating layer to an adhesive backing; removing the adhesive backing; forming a tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry by bringing the item adhesive layer into contact with an inventory item; and charge up and transmit a radio field identification code from the radio field tag by providing a radio signal from at least one radio field antenna, wherein the concentrating layer includes a radio signal enhancing material, and wherein the concentrating layer enhances an amount of radio signal from the radio field tag to an at least one radio field antenna relative to a radio field tag without the concentrating layer.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the integrated circuit layer is in direct contact with the circuit adhesive layer, wherein circuit adhesive layer is in direct contact with the concentrating layer, wherein concentrating layer is in direct contact with the item adhesive layer, and wherein the item adhesive layer is in direct contact with the tagged inventory item containing a liquid or a slurry.
 15. The radio field tag of claim 14, wherein the radio signal enhancing material includes a solid foam.
 16. The radio field tag of claim 15, wherein the solid foam includes a polystyrene foam, a foam rubber, a silicone foam, a polyurethane foam, or a combination thereof. 